Regis signs books at the Americana

Now that TV talk-show host Regis Philbin has retired from his morning “Live with Regis and Kelly” on ABC, he’s making the rounds of the bookstores to sign and sell his new book, “How I Got This Way.” On Saturday (Nov. 26), Barnes & Noble in the Americana was host to some 300 Regis fans who came to learn the real scoop on the TV star’s life. A bonus was the appearance of Regis’ wife and sometimes TV partner, Joy Philbin.

Originally, Regis wanted to be the next Bing Crosby. In fact, Glendale resident Gladys Wymore mentioned his idol when Regis signed her book. “The way you feel about Bing Crosby is the way we all feel about you,” Wymore said. Wymore was willing to stand in a long line for 3½ hours before the noon book signing.

What’s next for Regis? Although he’s been approached by the show’s producers, he modestly turned down the opportunity to dance on “Dancing With the Stars.”

Just in time for “Small Business Saturday” (Nov. 26), Intuitive Touch Massage celebrated its grand opening by offering free chair massages, refreshments and a DJ who rocked. This Glendale business in Kenneth Village is owned by Glendale resident and massage therapist Jaime Preston. Sister Debra Preston will service customers at the reception desk. These two sisters from New Jersey make a dynamic team. They even talked mom, Hazel Preston, into being the evening’s official greeter.

Two massage chairs were never empty as guests lined up for free massages. Therapists Gayane Kirakosyan from Glendale and L.A. resident Kimeeyon Pointer were kept busy giving the 10-minute massages. First in line at the chairs were Jessica Walker and daughter Jasmine Walker, 10. Jasmine was there for her first professional massage. She described some aches and pains from PE class at school. After the massage — it was so-o-o-o good,” Jasmine said.

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This year’s free community Thanksgiving lunch offered by the Glendale Salvation Army drew a record 250 hungry visitors. The Army’s West Windsor Road headquarters was packed with community members celebrating Thanksgiving on Thursday (Nov. 24). Anybody from any walk of life and living arrangement or lack of one have been encouraged to come during the more than 15 years the army has been offering this holiday meal. Visitors were welcomed by Salvation Army Glendale Capt. Rio Ray.

Many who came live alone and enjoyed the sociability of new-found friends across the table with turkey and trimmings served family style. Glendale resident Linda Levinson wouldn’t miss a Salvation Army Thanksgiving lunch. “It’s a wonderful way to meet people and have great food,” Levinson said. She lives alone with her five cats and looks for a good excuse to socialize.

Glendale resident Peter Magdy brought daughters Joy Peter, 7, and Joly Peter, 6. Mom stayed home to man the fort. Magdy, Egyptian by birth, is sold on the American tradition of Thanksgiving.

Volunteers served up the vittles. There was even a Glendale VIP or two spotted wielding the serving fork. Glendale Councilman Ara Najarian manned the dark-meat turkey tray and was generous in his serving portions. Zaven Kazazian, immediate past president of the Glendale Sunrise Rotary Club, was in charge of the potatoes and gravy. Another Rotary Club donated the turkey. Members of Glendale Noon Rotary made sure there was enough gobble-gobble to go around. More volunteers took the filled plates and served the visitors. Two young servers were 10-year-old friends Elijah Rodriguez and Thomas St. John. They came from Claremont to volunteer. According to Rodriguez, “My mom gave us the idea to come.” Mom Deidra Little was a busy volunteer behind the scenes.

Watch for the red kettles this holiday season. Glendale’s nonprofit Salvation Army wants to raise about $100,000 so the free Thanksgiving lunch can continue to be available.